Watch for stopped buses at rail crossings

King County Metro Transit buses started making more safety stops at railroad crossings June 10 as a result of updated state regulations.

State legislators changed the rule for public transit, charter buses, school buses and trucks transporting hazardous material to stop at almost all crossings.

Drivers will notice buses slowing down and activating the four-way hazard lights at almost any railroad crossing — including locations where buses may have not stopped before. The rule requires buses to stop at these crossings regardless of whether the bus is carrying passengers or heading back to the transit base empty.

Metro encouraged other motorists on the road to be aware of buses stopped in traffic at these crossings, follow buses at a safe distance and to use caution when passing them.